Screaming babies in public places are a fact of life. Red-faced toddlers (not to mention their red-faced parents) can be spotted everywhere from subway cars to the doctor's office. But one Pennsylvania restaurant has banned young children, sending a clear message to parents: Take your tots and their tantrums elsewhere.

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McDain's Restaurant and Golf Center in Monroeville, Pa., is no longer allowing kids under 6, MSNBC reports. The new policy, meant to shield the restaurant's clientele from crying children, will take effect July 16.

"We feel that McDain's is not a place for young children," owner Mike Vuick said in an e-mail to customers. "Their volume can't be controlled and many, many times, they have disturbed other customers."

Mr. Vuick added that the new rule comes after years of complaints, and described parents who dine out with kids as "impolite and selfish."

Although some patrons say they support Mr. Vuick's decision, others have complained.

"I can't believe this. I am offended. This is just an ignorant policy," said Stephanie Kelley, mother of a 13-month-old boy. "If they're so concerned about noise, what do they plan to do about the loud people at the bar?"

But other moms say they support the ban. "I have no problem with restaurants choosing to ban children under a certain age, particularly if they are aiming to create a quiet ambience," said Nicole Christen, 32, author of CanadianMomBlogger.com and mother of three young children. "When my husband and I go out for a meal on a date night, we usually request not to be seated near any children so we can have a break from little voices."

Ms. Christen added that she brings her children to family-friendly restaurants, where patrons expect an element of noise.